Travel Q&A: How much of Japan can I see in a week?

The lovely Yasaka Pagoda in Kyoto, Japan, is all that remains of the historic Hokanji Temple. (Emi Doi/MCT)

Q I'm thinking about going to Japan for a week as a solo traveler. I'd most likely stay in Tokyo, but should I also see Kyoto? Osaka? Mount Fuji?

A When I went to Tokyo, I was very glad that we spent several days in Kyoto. Gorgeous temples, beautiful inn, sweet streets. So definitely do that. I haven't been to Osaka or Mount Fuji, but if you're there for only a week, it sounds to me as if it would be too much. You could spend four days in Tokyo and three in Kyoto.

YOUR TURN, READERS: What do you say? How much of Japan can one reasonably cover in a week? Send your recommendations and experiences to travel@bayareanewsgroup.com.

Q I'll be going to Europe for the first time. I have trouble adjusting to time zone differences, and I'm worried about how I will function in Europe. Any tips?

A There are lots and lots of tips out there: Some say that you should try to avoid sleeping when you arrive and should stay up and try to adapt to the new time zone. Others say that you should take melatonin to help reset your body clock. There's evidence that if you plan a little bit, you can use light to help you adjust; that's what helps trigger your sleep cycle anyway.

Q I'm staying at a big-name hotel, and I've been pretty disappointed so far. It's been minor things, such as the valet parking being overwhelmed; dirty, cobweb-covered windows; the wrong room (double beds instead of king). At the prices we're paying, I'd think the whole experience would be a lot more polished. How do you complain about that?

A I'd recommend prioritizing your complaints. The wrong-room issue seems the biggest. I'd go to the front desk in person and ask to be moved to the correct room. If there are cobwebs on the window, I'd make a call to housekeeping and give them a chance to address that.

I hope that the hotel is concerned with the overall guest experience. If it fails to address any of these issues, you'll need to put the complaint in writing.

Q Two empty-nest boomers are going to Myrtle Beach S.C., for four days in a few weeks. Are there recommended attractions besides the obvious beach and golf? Any restaurants we shouldn't miss?

A If you like nature, take a dolphin tour with Blue Wave Adventures. I'm also a fan of Brookgreen Gardens. There are plenty of shows, including the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. The SkyWheel offers great views. I've been underwhelmed with restaurants there, but liked Villa Romana and Sea Captain's House.

Q Are there resources online for evaluating and rating travel insurance providers and plans?

A Lots of sites allow you to compare travel insurance policies. Try InsureMyTrip, QuoteWright and SquareMouth. And read the fine print of any policy before purchasing, especially if you need it to cover a specific situation.